The current F1 and the 2026 regulations, with the engine (thermal and electrical) 50/50 is having many detractors among the drivers and also among the fansalthough it is true that from outside, especially in careerthe situations have really been interesting in some phases. There are some more controversial aspects, as happened in Japan when the cars were left without power before reaching emblematic areas as before 130R. Outside of the qualifications, on Sundays, the duels have been entertaining in general and more so in Miamiwhere already McLaren was faster in pace and only an error in strategy allowed Antonelli to take the victory.
Nico Hulkenberg He is one of those who believes that everything has followed a logical path, adapted to the demands of the industry and is not something new in this sport. “To be honest, this has always happened in F1, hasn’t it? F1 is about leading in technology, and you have to adapt to the times. If you look at the automotive industry 5 or 10 years ago, it is different now; has changed,” emphasizes the German from Audi F1 in ‘The Drive’, regarding what is happening in street cars.
Hulkenberg does not believe that the competition is being as bad as some say, even among the drivers, mainly Max Verstappen. “I think if you look The first races of this year have been entertaining. It has been good to see them, with a lot of action on the track…. And well, if you don’t like it, you don’t have to see them.”launches the 38-year-old driver, who has not yet been able to score points, although he has come close on several occasions.
Nico acknowledges that he would like other types of cars, but he is no stranger to the fact that “F1 is constantly evolving. Obviously, There are purists who love the old school and the sound of a naturally aspirated V10 or V12, myself included!, but the reality is that it is not like that“, he concedes.
“A few years ago, sustainability was a very important issue; now not so much. But, the truth is, I think F1 and those responsible for the regulations were somewhat forced to go in that direction to adapt to current times. If you want to be up to date and be a legitimate business and entertainment model, You have to follow that path,” defends Hülk, who achieved the first podium of his life last year with Sauber.
Stop and go back in 2031?
Maybe you’re partly right, but It wouldn’t have hurt to start with a progressive regulation, first 70/30 (which was already more than there was in 2025), to gradually increase the prominence of batteries in subsequent years.
In fact, the current drastic experience, influenced by some of the new manufacturers (perhaps Audi and Honda among them), is causing the next engine change in 2030 or 2031 (not determined yet) returns again to a V8 engine, which disappeared in 2013, with a much less electrical partr than the current one. That is what is said now in the paddock and it is almost taken for granted that it will be agreed upon in the summer of this year.